What is Cryptics?

CRYPTICS is India’s Premier School Technology Quiz Championship, organised by Vydehi School of Excellence, Bengaluru. Now in its 9th edition, the competition brings together young technology enthusiasts from schools across India to explore emerging technologies, test their knowledge and compete on a national stage.

Who can participate in Cryptics 9.0?

Cryptics 9.0 is open to students from Grades 6-8 from schools across India.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes. The entry fee is ₹250 per team.

How many students can participate from each school?

Each team must consist of 2 students. A school may register up to 3 teams, allowing a maximum of 6 students per school.

How can schools register?

Schools can register through the official registration form available on the CRYPTICS website.

Registrations close on 31 October 2026.

What is the competition format?

The All India Championship follows one national competition pathway:

CRYPTICS 9.0 follows a national competition pathway:

• Preliminary Round — Online | November 2026
• Quarterfinals — Online | November 2026
• Semi-finals — Offline | January 2027 | Vydehi School of Excellence, Bengaluru
• National Grand Finale — Offline | January 2027 | Vydehi School of Excellence, Bengaluru

Detailed round dates and timings will be shared with registered schools.

What topics are covered in the quiz?

• Crack the Code — Programming, algorithms, logic & computational thinking
• Meet the Future — AI, machine learning, robotics & emerging technologies
• Think Like a Cyber Defender — Cybersecurity, networks, operating systems & the digital world
• Imagine. Innovate. Transform. — Technology trends, start-ups, breakthrough ideas & the innovators changing our world
• Stay Ahead of the Tech World — Latest breakthroughs, discoveries, inventions & global tech happenings

Visit the Quiz Topics page for more details.

Is there a fixed syllabus?

The topics listed on the website are indicative and are not restricted to any specific school board or curriculum. Questions may also cover recent developments, emerging technologies, innovations and current happenings from the world of technology.

What device is required for the online rounds?

Participants must use a laptop with a stable internet connection for the online Preliminary Round and Quarterfinals.

Can participants receive assistance during the online rounds?

No. Participants must complete the Preliminary Round and Quarterfinals without external assistance or unfair means.

Can student participants be changed after registration?

No. Student participants registered for a team cannot be changed at the last minute.

Where will the Semi-finals and Grand Finale be held?

The Semi-finals and National Grand Finale will both be conducted offline at Vydehi School of Excellence, Bengaluru, in January 2027.

Will participants receive certificates?

Yes. Every participant will receive an e-certificate.

What prizes can winners receive?

The National Grand Finale will feature multiple cash prizes and awards, including:

• 1st Prize – ₹1,00,000

• 2nd Prize – ₹50,000

• 3 Third Prizes – ₹25,000 each

• More prizes, trophies, certificates and recognition

Who should schools contact for queries?

For questions regarding registration, participation, competition guidelines or the event schedule, please contact the CRYPTICS team.